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The Bridge, a leading nonprofit organization based in New York dedicated to serving individuals with serious mental illness and substance use disorders, celebrated its 70th anniversary in a grand event attended by esteemed guests and supporters. President Susan Wiviott expressed her gratitude and shared the organization's remarkable achievements over the past year.
Under President Wiviott's leadership, The Bridge has experienced unprecedented growth, expanding its reach and impact. The organization is proud to announce the upcoming opening of a new building in Brownsville, Brooklyn. This facility will provide 174 supportive and affordable apartments, as well as light manufacturing space operated by GMDC. President Wiviott personally visited the building and described it as "absolutely beautiful."
The Bridge is also working on several housing projects in Manhattan and the Bronx, with plans to create over 550 new units within the next few years. These initiatives aim to address the critical need for housing solutions for vulnerable populations in New York City.
In addition to housing, The Bridge has significantly enhanced its outreach and mobile treatment programs, allowing them to work with individuals living on the streets and in subways. With the support of programs funded through the Manhattan District Attorney's office, The Bridge's mobile teams reach over 2000 people each year, providing essential services and support to those in need.
President Wiviott expressed deep admiration for The Bridge staff, describing them as "amazing people" who tirelessly dedicate themselves to challenging and sometimes frustrating work. With over 600 staff members, The Bridge is grateful for their commitment and unwavering dedication to the organization's mission.
The clients served by The Bridge are at the heart of their work. President Wiviott acknowledged the difficulties faced by individuals with serious mental illness, emphasizing their resilience and determination to overcome challenges. The organization's goal is to empower clients to navigate the world and not let their illness define or control them.
As a nonprofit organization, The Bridge relies on the support of numerous individuals and partners to continue its vital work. President Wiviott expressed heartfelt gratitude to all the donors and friends who contribute year after year. Their dedication and commitment enable The Bridge to develop new programs, expand housing options, and serve more people in need. President Wiviott also extended her appreciation to the government partners at the city and state levels. Recognizing the collaborative efforts behind the scenes, she acknowledged the real problem solvers who work tirelessly to address the complex challenges faced by The Bridge and its clients.
The Bridge's board members were recognized for their invaluable contributions. President Wiviott praised their continuity, commitment, and generosity, emphasizing their role in keeping The Bridge strong. She expressed particular gratitude to President Emerita Cynthia Wainwright, who continues to have a significant presence on the board, as well as Carol Buckler, the current Board President, and gala co-chairs Bess and Kathryn for their exceptional leadership.
The evening's honoree, Mitch Gelber, was commended for his outstanding support and dedication to The Bridge. His commitment to understanding the organization's mission and his contribution to its success were recognized and celebrated. President Wiviott then introduced the second honoree of the evening, renowned writer Jonathan Rosen. She praised Rosen's talent and highlighted his best-selling book, "The Best Minds: A Story of Friendship, Madness, and the Tragedy of Good Intentions." The book, which received critical acclaim and featured on top book lists, tells the poignant story of Rosen's childhood friend Michael Lauder, who was diagnosed with schizophrenia.
"The Best Minds" not only captivates readers with its riveting narrative but also provides a deep understanding of the cultural and medical history of serious mental illness. Rosen's work sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals with mental illness and the flaws within the system designed to support them.
Sharleen Ravishankar, a Board Member at The Bridge Foundation, is dedicated to raising awareness among family offices and top-tier firms to allocate fixed annual funds towards the foundation for charitable donations. She believes in the importance of giving visibility to every human and is honored to be part of a non-profit organization that helps provide dignity and respect to New York's most vulnerable. Ravishankar emphasizes that society's punishments are insignificant compared to ignoring the well-being of individuals in need. As a board member, she brings this conviction and commitment to her role in the foundation.
President Wiviott concluded her remarks by expressing her gratitude to all those who have contributed to The Bridge's success and highlighting the organization's commitment to serving the most vulnerable individuals in New York City.
About The Bridge:
The Bridge is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing support and services to individuals with serious mental illness and substance use disorders. With a focus on housing, outreach, and mobile treatment, The Bridge aims to empower individuals and help them navigate the challenges they face. For more information, visit https://www.thebridgeny.org/
Media Contact:
Liana Zavo
ZavoMedia PR Group
(212) 814-7176
liana@zavomediapr.com